ONEE unveils MAD 41 million project to bolster clean water access in Moroccan provinces

Sunday 02 March 2025 - 12:00

By: Dakir Madiha

ONEE unveils MAD 41 million project to bolster clean water access in Moroccan provinces

The National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) has launched an ambitious project to enhance the drinking water supply in several provinces, aiming to improve access to clean water for thousands of residents.

The initiative, valued at 41 million Moroccan dirhams, focuses on the Mkanssa commune in the Taounate province, as well as surrounding communities in Sidi Kacem and Moulay Yaacoub. Utilizing water sourced from the Al Wahda dam, the project represents a critical step toward ensuring a secure and sustainable water supply in these regions.

The first phase of the project, with a budget of 24 million dirhams, is being funded by ONEE with support from a loan provided by the German Development Bank (Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau/KFW). This phase includes the installation of 28.5 kilometers of pipelines with diameters ranging from 300 to 400 millimeters, connecting production facilities to local communities.

The second phase, set to be completed by December 2025, will involve the construction of a 500-cubic-meter drinking water reservoir and a pumping station capable of delivering 45 liters per second.

This initiative falls under the broader framework of the National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program (PNAEPI) 2020-2027. Launched in January 2020 under the directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the program aims to ensure continuous and reliable water access across Morocco.

The project will directly benefit the communes of Mkanssa, El Ghouazi, and Beni Snous in Taounate, as well as Mrabih and Selfat in Sidi Kacem, and Sebt Loudaya in Moulay Yaâcoub. In total, over 72,000 people are expected to gain improved access to clean drinking water.

Beyond meeting essential water needs, the project is anticipated to significantly uplift the living standards of local populations while contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.